What causes nuclear fission in a collision between two neutrons?

In summary, when two neutrons collide, there will not be any repulsive forces since they have no charge. However, the strong nuclear force must also be considered, which can cause neutrons to split the nucleus through nuclear fission. While neutrons can scatter off each other, the probability is low and has not been accurately measured. A related paper on the topic can be found through further research.
  • #1
adjacent
Gold Member
1,552
63
What will happen if we collide two neutrons?
As far as I know,since they have no charge, there won't be any repulsive forces. So one neutron will go through the other.:eek:
Is this true? What about nuclear fission? Why does the neutron split the nucleus when there are no forces present?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
Neutrons can scatter off each other but the probability is low. I don't think it's ever been accurately measured. My google-fu came up with this paper of interest: Link
 

What is a "Collision of two neutrons"?

A collision of two neutrons refers to the event where two neutrons, which are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom, come into contact with each other.

What happens during a collision of two neutrons?

During a collision of two neutrons, several outcomes are possible. They can bounce off each other, merge together to form a heavier particle, or even split into smaller particles.

Why do scientists study collisions of two neutrons?

Scientists study collisions of two neutrons to better understand the fundamental forces at work in the universe and to gain insights into the structure and behavior of matter at a subatomic level. This research can also have practical applications in fields such as nuclear energy and medicine.

How do scientists simulate collisions of two neutrons?

Scientists can simulate collisions of two neutrons by using powerful particle accelerators, which accelerate the particles to high speeds and then collide them in controlled environments. This allows them to observe and analyze the outcomes of these collisions.

What can collisions of two neutrons tell us about the universe?

Collisions of two neutrons can provide valuable information about the building blocks of the universe and the processes that govern its behavior. They can help us understand the formation of elements, the structure of matter, and the origin of the universe.

Similar threads

I Can Neutron-X Fusion Reactions Overcome the Repulsion Problem in Fusion Energy?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
11
Views
1K
I Nuclear Fission of Uranium-235
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
1K
I Questions about the energy released by nuclear fission
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
4
Views
1K
Electrons and their little role in nuclear physics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
748
I Separation energy of nucleons and Coulomb barrier
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
911
A Nuclear Reaction: Determining the velocity of neutrons
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
I Work Done/Energy Transferred in One Dimensional Collision
    • Mechanics
Replies
5
Views
844
B Basic definition: Nuclear Fusion & Fission
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
2K
I Binding energy, fusion and fission
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K
B Assistance finding the nuclear energy difference during nuclear fusion
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
915

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top